Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, Michigan law requires school districts to adopt policies regarding student use of wireless communication devices during the school day. Marshall Public Schools has adopted a policy that complies with state law while supporting our goal of maximizing learning, reducing distractions, and creating positive classroom environments.

Wireless communication devices include cell phones, smart watches, earbuds, tablets, and any other electronic device capable of texting, calling, accessing the internet, taking photos or videos, or sending messages.

Research and experience from schools across the country have shown that limiting personal device use during instructional time can:

• Increase student focus and engagement
• Reduce classroom distractions
• Improve peer-to-peer interaction
• Support student mental health
• Help students build healthy technology habits

Our goal is simple: when students are at school, we want them to be fully engaged in learning.

Elementary School

Students should not bring personal wireless communication devices to school.

Middle School

Students who bring a device to school must keep it stored in their locker for the entire school day.

High School

Students who bring a device to school must keep it stored in their locker during instructional time. Devices may be used during the designated lunch period.

No.

Middle and high school students who bring a phone to school are expected to store it in their assigned locker during instructional time.

Yes.

High school students may use their devices during their designated lunch period. Devices must be returned to their locker before the next instructional period begins.

Middle school is an important time for developing friendships, communication skills, and positive social interactions. Keeping devices stored throughout the school day helps students engage with one another and reduces distractions.

If you need to reach your child during the school day, please contact your school's main office. Office staff will ensure important messages are delivered promptly.

Students who need to contact a parent or guardian during the school day may do so through the school office.

Student safety is always our highest priority.

In the event of an emergency, school staff will communicate with families through the district's established communication systems, including ParentSquare, phone calls, email, text messages, and our website when appropriate.

Yes.

Students may use a wireless communication device if:

• It is medically necessary.
• It is required by an IEP or Section 504 Plan.
• The device is owned by the district for instructional purposes.
• Another exception outlined in Board Policy applies.

Consequences are outlined in Board Policy. Depending on the situation, responses may include reminders, confiscation of the device, parent notification, or other disciplinary measures consistent with district procedures.

Our focus is on helping students learn appropriate expectations rather than punishment.

Generally, no.

If technology is needed for instruction, teachers will use district-approved devices whenever possible. Any use of personal devices for instructional purposes would only occur if specifically authorized under district policy.

No.

Personal earbuds and headphones connected to personal devices are subject to the same expectations as cell phones and should not be used unless specifically authorized by an exception listed in Board policy.

Staff understand that adjusting to new expectations takes time. Students will be reminded of the policy, and consequences will be applied consistently according to district procedures.

Students who require a device to monitor or manage a medical condition will continue to be able to use it as permitted through their district approved health plan or other applicable accommodations.

Students may wear smart watches as long as they are not being used as a communication device.

No.

The policy applies during the instructional school day. Students participating in athletics, extracurricular activities, performances, or other after-school events may use devices as permitted by coaches, advisors, or event supervisors.

If a student does not have access to a locker for any reason, the school administration will provide guidance on appropriate device storage.

This policy reflects both new Michigan legislation and our commitment to creating classrooms where students can focus, participate, and build meaningful relationships without the constant distraction of personal technology.

Instructional time begins when the school day starts and instruction begins, and continues until dismissal at the end of the school day.